If anyone has inherited the legacy of Jacques Brel’s savage lyricism and Scott Walker’s narative flair , it’s Simon Warner . A rasping blue ache of a voice - Tom Waits mets Jeffrey Bernard - and a wild shock of blond hair ; Simon ‘s is a startling presence hat has already won him a steady band of followers through a series of gigs in smoky Soho dives . With all the wasted elegence of Station To Station - era Bowie and the casual extravagance of a born storyteller , Simon fronts a ten piece band that includes a string quartet , trumpet and piano .

Already highlights of Simon’s live set , songs like the heartwrenching Jamboree - about visiting a junk shop stocked with the dusty possessions of the recently deceased - Mrs . Zaniewski - the tale of how a twinkly - eyed forty - something divorcee got our hero exactly where she wanted him - will be among those featured on Simon’s debut album , Waiting Rooms , due for release on the 19th May 1997 .

Simon Warner - `LIVE May 22nd 100 Club - album launch 20th June London Venue 19th July Phoneix Festival